Bayer appoints Andrich as their new team captain - Bayer appoints Andrich as their new team captain
Bayer Leverkusen Names Robert Andrich as New Captain
Following the departure of Lukas Hradecky, German international midfielder Robert Andrich has been appointed as the new captain of Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen. This marks a significant milestone in Andrich's career as he steps into a leadership role at the club.
At 30 years old, Andrich is a seasoned player, having established himself as a key midfielder both in the Bundesliga and at the national level. His leadership qualities have been recognised by the club, especially in the wake of the departure of key players like Granit Xhaka during the summer.
Erik ten Hag, the new coach at Bayer Leverkusen, described Andrich as a "natural leader" during the preseason, emphasising that the captaincy is about more than just wearing the armband; it involves bringing the team together on and off the pitch.
Andrich expressed his gratitude for the honour, stating that it is a sign of trust from the coaching staff and his teammates. To prepare for his role, he has invested in a personal chef and trainer during preseason, recognising the importance of physical condition as he advances in age.
The first game Andrich will lead as captain is a first-round match in the DFB Cup against SG Sonnenhof Großaspach. The game will be played at 6 p.m. CET and will be broadcast on Sky. This will also be ten Hag's debut as Bayer coach.
Ten Hag has stated that he wants to keep all the players at Bayer 04 Leverkusen, but many key players such as Florian Wirtz, Jonathan Tah, Jeremy Frimpong, or Hradecky himself have left the club. Andrich's role will be to provide stability and continuity amid this period of transition, serving as a pillar for the squad and helping to integrate new talent.
As Leverkusen looks to develop a new era under ten Hag's guidance, Andrich's leadership will be crucial in setting the tone for the season. This leadership role is a significant step in Andrich’s career as he anchors Bayer Leverkusen through a challenging transition.
Meanwhile, it has been reported that offensive player Amine Adli is close to a move to AFC Bournemouth in England. As for ten Hag, he does not believe he will always be compared to his predecessor's successes at Bayer 04 Leverkusen.
Background: - German international midfielder, 30 years old. - Established Bundesliga and national-level midfielder. - Experienced leader.
Captaincy: - Appointed in August 2025 following Lukas Hradecky’s departure and Granit Xhaka’s summer exit.
Leadership Style: - Natural leader who unites and elevates the team, praised by coach Erik ten Hag.
Impact: - Expected to provide stability and continuity amid a rebuilding phase, emphasising fitness and consistency.
In light of the ongoing transition in Bayer Leverkusen, the Commission has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of the environment in the Community. On a different note, Robert Andrich, the newly assigned captain of Bayer Leverkusen, has shown a keen interest in sports, particularly football, as he prepares for his leadership role, emphasizing the importance of fitness and consistency.